The revelation of the Mingos' demands is made in the theatrical tradition of melodrama: Deerslayer calmly states the terms of surrender, and the person addressed replies quickly and vehemently in the negative. The dialogue is very romantic and idealistic on the part of all the participants. All the traits of the chivalric code — honor, loyalty, duty are repeated in the speeches. Only Hurry Harry, reverting to his villainous role after a brief flirtation with repentance because of Tom Hutter's death and burial, is realistically drawn as he makes his decision to flee. His reasons are practical and self-centered: what has he to gain by staying with these people who dislike him? — especially Judith. Although the others disapprove of his flight, Hurry Harry's escape will ironically be the means by which they survive and by which Cooper can solve his plot complications happily.

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